Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh TVXL220 will not start, fly wheel, connecting rod

Question
This engine is on my Montgomery ward tractor lawn mower.  I was cutting the lawn when the engine stopped; I hear a jingle clinking sound before it died.  I tried to start it again with no luck. Can you give me some tips on what to try to see if the engine needs replacing?  The mower has an electronic starter that attempts to start the engine...  I can hear the spark plug firing ..  There is gas but the oil seems to be low.. No leaks..
I can turn the fly wheel back and forth... sometimes it gets stuck.

Answer
Hello Clive:

>>Does the Engine Turn Really, Really Easy as if the Spark Plug is Removed?
>>Can you Turn the Flywheel for Several Rotations or Does the Flywheel Suddenly Stop After 1 or 1 1/2 Rotations?
>>From your Description (the Jingle Clinking sound) it Sounds like Connecting Rod has Broken and More then Likely the Engine is Trashed.
>>Remove the Cylinder Head and then Rotate the Flywheel.
>>Is the Piston Moving? If No, then
>>The Connecting Rod is Broken.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers TVXL220. Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John